October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and we’re celebrating the strength of three inspiring Latina breast cancer survivors who continue to uplift and empower others with their stories
While October is often associated with Halloween festivities, it’s also a time to focus on breast cancer awareness. From October 1 to October 31, primary breast cancer charities work to increase awareness and raise funds for research on treatment, prevention, and finding a cure.
Breast cancer is defined as “a cancer that begins as a growth of cells in the breast tissue.” It’s the most common cancer in women in the U.S., after skin cancer. However, as the Mayo Clinic highlights, it’s not exclusive to women—anyone with breast tissue can get breast cancer.
Although Hispanic and Latina women in the U.S. have an estimated 20% lower rate of breast cancer compared to the general population, it remains the leading cause of cancer death among Latina and Hispanic women, according to WebMD.
This disease can affect anyone—from Latinas working everyday jobs to well-known Latin pop stars and television personalities.
For those who don’t know, here are three Latina breast cancer survivors who have bravely shared their personal stories with the media:
Alejandra Guzmán
The Mexican pop-rock star, known for hits like “Hacer El Amor Con Otro,” “Mírala, Míralo,” and “Eternamente Bella,” is a breast cancer survivor.
Guzmán was diagnosed in 2007 when doctors found a tumor in her breast. “After the initial studies, when I was told that it was cancer, I acted quickly and decided to undergo surgery. I had to take a pill that was equivalent to chemotherapy, and I faced two operations to remove lymph nodes. Thank God, the cancer hadn’t spread. I was lucky,” she told AARP.
Now 56, she advocates for women who have been in her shoes. In 2019, she even performed at a Breast Cancer Awareness concert in Los Angeles, CA, in support of the Susan G. Komen Foundation.
Adamari López
Puerto Rican television host and actress Adamari López has publicly battled breast cancer, especially since she was a co-host of a popular television show at the time of her diagnosis.
López was 33 when she learned she had breast cancer. “No one in my family had ever had cancer, so it was difficult and surprising to hear the news. But after consulting different doctors, I chose to have surgery to remove my breast and continue with my life,” she said.
Now 53, López is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of early detection. In an interview with NIH Medline Plus Magazine, she shared: “A cancer diagnosis is not a synonym for death. It’s a synonym for fighting, for seeking strength, and for learning to enjoy the things that life offers us. Keep fighting for the things you dream of, for a better life, a healthier life, a life of beautiful moments you can create throughout your journey.”
Ana María Polo
Another well-known Latina breast cancer survivor is Cuban-American television arbitrator Ana María Polo, famous for her show Caso Cerrado. About two decades ago, Polo discovered a small lump during a self-exam.
“I found a small lump, so I went to the doctor. After a biopsy, it came back positive. It was one of the most difficult experiences of my life,” she shared.
Now 65, Polo is a cancer survivor and advocate for cancer research and education. She told Stand Up To Cancer: “My advice to anyone going through this is: you must understand that a cancer diagnosis is not a death sentence. Educate yourself as much as possible because all cancers are different, and talk to your doctor about your options and treatments.”
